Depression forces 20-year-old goalkeeper to quit football

The prospect of a young English goalkeeper
Craig King has been thwarted by the silent killer
called depression.
The 20-year-old before the announcement plied
his trade with English football league two side
Luton Town and had managed just four senior
games for the Hatters after coming through the
club’s ranks.
He thanked the whole club for support, singling
out physio Simon Parsell and club doctor Paul
Deeley, and hopes to play football at a lower
level.
Luton said they “fully respect and understand
his decision” and said they would continue to
offer support.
The club statement continued: “All at the club
would like to wish Craig every success in both
his football career and life away from the
professional game, and look forward to seeing
him back at Kenilworth Road where he’ll always
be a welcome guest.”
King’s statement in full
“After a memorable nine seasons I have decided
to leave Luton Town.
“This has been the hardest decision I have ever
had to make, but after many sleepless nights I
have come to this conclusion.
“For the last couple of years I have been
suffering from quite severe depression.
“The season just gone has been particularly
hard for me and now I feel it’s time for me to
concentrate on being happy once again.
“Growing up and slowly starting to despise the
game I loved and adored as a boy is
heartbreaking, and something I want and need
to change.
“The only way I see this becoming a possibility
is taking myself away from the professional
game and starting to enjoy football at a lower
level.
“The club have been aware of my situation and
have been amazing at trying everything in their
power to try to resolve the issue.
“Club physio Simon Parsell and club doctor Paul
Deeley have been unreal support for me and
helped me through the season. Now I am at the
stage where I know I can’t improve my current
mental state whilst being at the club.
“I would like to thank every single member of
Luton Town for everything they have done for
me over the years.
“The fans who when I’ve played have supported
me, and every single person who associates
themselves with the football club.
“Although my career as a player at the club has
come to an end, I will always love and support
the Hatters and will be forever grateful for the
opportunity and memories they have given me
over the past nine years.
“I’m excited to see the boys win promotion next
season and continue the climb up the leagues!”
BBC